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Frontline realities of island nursing: navigating triage, pre-hospital care, and workforce challenges at Rarotonga Hospital, Cook Islands

Tracks
Concurrent Stream 4
Thursday, October 15, 2026
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM
Harbour View Room Two

Overview

Naibuka Natuna


Speaker

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Mr Naibuka Natuna
Charge Nurse Ed
Rarotonga Hospital

Frontline realities of island nursing: navigating triage, pre-hospital care, and workforce challenges at Rarotonga Hospital, Cook Islands

11:15 AM - 11:35 AM

Biography

I am a Registered Nurse and Midwife with over 13 years of clinical experience in emergency, acute, and maternal healthcare. Originally from Fiji, I relocated to the Cook Islands in 2022 and currently serves as the Charge Nurse of the Emergency Department at Rarotonga Hospital. I holds a Diploma in Nursing, a Bachelor’s Degree, and a Postgraduate qualification, reflecting his commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to delivering high-quality patient care, promoting patient safety, and supporting workforce development. I play an active role in emergency department operations, staff mentorship, quality improvement initiatives, and pre-hospital emergency services. Passionate about advancing healthcare across Pacific Island communities, I advocates for professional development, sustainable workforce planning, and equitable access to healthcare. My leadership, collaboration, and compassionate approach continue to strengthen emergency care services and improve patient outcomes.
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